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NOAH welcomes commitment to animal health and welfare in Queen’s Speech
"Our priority is a vibrant and innovative UK animal health sector." - Dawn Howard, NOAH chief executive.

Importance of welfare outlined in new government plans

NOAH has released a statement, welcoming the commitment to parliamentary time to amend the Veterinary Medicines Regulations, as mentioned in the Queen’s Speech.

Dawn Howard, chief executive of NOAH said: “EU exit means that a robust, sensible and proportionate UK regulatory system, firmly based on internationally recognised science and technical expertise, is more important than ever.

“We have emphasised that parliamentary time will be needed to review the veterinary medicines legislation and help ensure opportunities that EU exit may present come to fruition, and are pleased to see this has been specifically included within the Medical and Medical Devices Bill.”

The association also expressed its approval of the emphasis on animal welfare in the new government’s plans within the Agriculture and Environment Bills.

NOAH’s Vision Paper for Animal Health and Welfare outlines the association’s goals regarding further development of agriculture policy in the UK. Focusing primarily on animal health and identifying the necessary processes required to improve the health and welfare of UK livestock.

Mrs Howard added: “Taking an animal health perspective will help deliver the benefits in terms of welfare that the bill aims to achieve, as well as supporting productivity, sustainability and resilience of farms – all helping to prepare for changes in trading outside the EU.

“Our paper sets out a holistic approach – as we believe no single action is going to deliver proper forward momentum. We look forward to working with the new Government to ensure our shared vision comes to fruition.”

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SPVS and FIVP launch VSA survey

News Story 1
 SPVS and FIVP have collaborated to launch a short survey about the proposed reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act.

The survey will ensure that each organisation's submission accurately represents the experiences of practising veterinary professionals. It will also explore awareness, use and perceived value of the roles undertaken by the RCVS.

It takes around 5-10 minutes to complete, and all responses are anonymous. The survey can be completed here until Thursday, 19 March 2026. 

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News Shorts
RCVS annual renewal fee for vets due

RCVS' annual renewal fee for veterinary surgeons is now due. Vets must pay their renewal fee before Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

This year's standard annual fee has increased to 431 from last year's 418. This is an approximately three per cent increase, as approved by RCVS Council and the Privy Council.

Tshidi Gardner, RCVS treasurer, said: "The small fee increase will be used to help deliver both our everyday activities and our new ambitious Strategic Plan, which includes aims such as achieving new legislation, reviewing the Codes of Professional Conduct and supporting guidance, and continuing to support the professions through activities such as the Mind Matters Initiative, RCVS Academy and career development."

A full breakdown of the new fees is on the RCVS website. Information about tax relief is available on the UK government website.